Leopold FC650MDS vs FC660MSplit Spacebar vs DIP Switches
Choose the FC650MDS for its modern USB-C and split spacebar, or the FC660M for its DIP switch layout customization.
Which one should you get?
Get the
Leopold FC650MDS
Split Spacebar
- Features a split spacebar layout for potential ergonomic or functional benefits.
- Uses a modern USB-C connection for the cable.
- Explicitly listed as compatible with Windows, Mac, and Linux.
- Lacks hardware DIP switches for layout customization.
- Some user reviews mention concerns about keycap quality and uneven spacebar.
- Wired-only connectivity limits placement flexibility.
Get the
Leopold FC660M
DIP Switches
- Includes DIP switches for hardware-level key layout customization.
- Features a classic, proven Leopold 65% design.
- Uses double-shot PBT keycaps for durability.
- Uses a legacy USB connection type instead of USB-C.
- Currently listed as out of stock or at a higher price point.
- Wired-only connectivity with no wireless option.
For most users, the Leopold FC650MDS is the more practical choice due to its modern USB-C port, split spacebar flexibility, and lower cost. Only choose the FC660M if hardware DIP switches for remapping keys like Caps Lock are a non-negotiable requirement for your workflow, and you are willing to accept its older USB connector.
The differences that matter
Skip the 40-row spec sheet. These are the specs that change how each board feels, sounds, and fits your desk.
Leopold FC650MDS
Leopold FC660M
Ergonomics
Split Spacebar
Standard
Mac & Windows
Yes
No
USB-C
Yes
No
- Leopold FC650MDS
- Leopold FC660M
- Performance
- 5253
- Build quality
- 4546
- Productivity
- 5343
- Customizability
- 4543
- Portability
- 6864
- Layout size: 65%
- Connection: Wired
- Switch options: Clicky, Linear, Silent, Tactile
- Mount style: Plate Mount
- Plate material: Plastic
- Keycaps: PBT
What will you mostly use it for?
The FC650MDS wins for office and content creation due to its split spacebar and modern USB-C connectivity with broad OS support. The FC660M is the pick for programming because of its DIP switches for hardware layout customization. For gaming, travel, and modding, the keyboards are effectively tied, sharing nearly identical core specs, wired nature, and non-hot-swappable construction.
It's a tie
- Both offer N-key rollover for simultaneous key presses.
- Both are wired-only with no specified latency advantage.
- Both are available with linear Cherry MX Red or Speed Silver switches.
Leopold FC650MDS vs FC660M specs
Every tracked spec, side by side. Rows marked with a dot differ between the boards.
3 of 16 specs differ
Leopold FC650MDS
Leopold FC660M
Switch options
Mount style
Layout size
Layout standard
Ergonomics
Display
Media keys
Connection
USB-C
Case material
Plate material
Keycaps
Backlight
N-key rollover
Mac & Windows
Released
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Leopold FC650MDS vs FC660M: your questions
The primary differences are in the layout and connectivity. The FC650MDS has a split spacebar and a USB-C port. The FC660M has a standard spacebar, uses a legacy USB connector, and includes DIP switches on the underside for hardware key remapping.
No. Both the Leopold FC650MDS and FC660M are not hot-swappable according to their vendor specifications. The switches are soldered onto the PCB, so changing them requires desoldering and soldering new switches.
The Leopold FC650MDS is explicitly listed with Mac compatibility in its vendor description. The FC660M listing confirms Windows compatibility but does not specifically mention Mac, though it may still work.
No. Both the Leopold FC650MDS and FC660M lack RGB lighting or any form of backlighting. They are focused on a classic, no-frills typing experience with high-quality PBT keycaps.
Both keyboards use double-shot PBT keycaps. This manufacturing method and material are known for durability and resistance to shine over time compared to ABS plastic.
The vendor description for the FC660M states its DIP switches are for "customizing layout." While the exact functions are not detailed, this typically includes swapping modifier keys like Caps Lock and Ctrl, and potentially disabling the Windows key.
Both keyboards come with a 60-inch (approximately 1.5-meter) USB cable according to their respective vendor specifications. There is no difference in cable length.
The vendor description specifically mentions adjustable feet for the FC650MDS. The description for the FC660M does not mention adjustable feet, so this feature may not be present.
Both are available with a range of genuine Cherry MX switches. Listings include linear (Red, Black, Silver, Silent Red), tactile (Brown, Clear), and clicky (Blue) variants.
The FC650MDS offers full N-key rollover, which is important for gaming, and is available with linear switches like Red or Silver favored by some gamers. However, it is wired-only and does not have specified gaming-oriented features like high polling rates.
The FC660M is an older, established model in Leopold's lineup. Its current higher listed price may reflect its legacy status, lower availability, or the inclusion of DIP switches, rather than a difference in core build materials or keycaps.
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